Laws about neon lights

Contributing WriterUpdated July 20, 2017

For some car enthusiasts, dressing a car in neon lights is a good way of making the vehicle more attractive. Neon lights make the car more eye-catching, especially when driving in dark areas. However, states have different laws regarding the use of neon lights on vehicles. Laws vary from state to state, but some general laws apply in the use of neon lights.

No Blue or Red Neon Lights

In most jurisdictions, the use of blue or red neon lights on the vehicle is illegal. This is because these are the colours seen on the vehicles of police and people with legal authority. Apart from police cars, these colours are also present on emergency vehicles. Driving with red or blue neon lights on the vehicle can cause onlookers to think that there is an emergency. The colours can also be disturbing to the eyes of other motorists, and this can cause accidents. When the authorities catch a driver with neon blue or red lights, the consequence may be a ticket or a fine of a few hundred dollars.

No Neon Flashing Lights

Flashing neon lights on the vehicle are illegal. This includes rotating and oscillating neon light bulbs that are on top of the car. This can cause other motorists to think that there is an emergency. Tickets, fines, and removal of the flashing neon lights on the vehicle may be the consequences for having them on.

Ground Effect Lighting

Ground effect lighting is the type of lighting under the vehicle. It is there to illuminate the ground. In most states and cities, ground effect lighting is legal, but there are some limitations to this. The neon lighting must not be in red and the lights should not be flashing. The sole purpose of this type of lighting is to light the ground underneath the car. Another condition is that the bulbs of the neon lighting must not be visible. They have to be close to the body, under the car, so as not to be seen. Motorists should still check with the state regarding this law, because it varies from place to place.